可拮抗nNOS的神经毒性Objective: To explore the effect of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy and the effect of acpuncture on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression in the brain. Methods: Twenty one Kunming male mice wererandomly divided into normal control group (n=6)
diabetes group (n=7) and acupuncture group (n=8). NOS expression was displayed using immunohistochemical technique. Diabetes mouse model was produced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Right "Taixi" (KI 3) was punctured and stimulated by twirling the acupuncture needle continuously for 2 min with hand. The treatment was given once every other day
continuously for 9 sessions. Results: After inducing diabetes for 6 weeks
the positive neurons of nNOS in different regions (cerebral cortex
hippocampus
hypothalamus
amygdaloid nucleus
the transitional area between the amygdala and the piriform cortex
the basolateral nucleus and the anterior region of the amygdala) of the brain increased in diabetes group than those of normal control group
especially being significant in the cerebral cortex and amygdaloid nucleus (P<0.01). But in acupuncture group
the positive neurons in the above mentioned brain regions particularly in cerebral cortex and amygdala were fewer in number than those of diabetes group.(P<0.01). Conclusion: In diabetes mice
acupuncture may suppress nNOS expression that mimics the effect of NOS antagonists in resisting nNOS toxicity.